OVERVIEW: The PLARK-675 Echo II is a Project 675 (Echo II)-class nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine (SSGN) of the Soviet Navy. Commissioned in 1973, it represents a significant evolution in Soviet submarine design, prioritizing long-range anti-surface warfare capabilities.

DETAILS:
The Project 675 (Echo II) class emerged from the Soviet Union's strategic need to counter U.S. Navy carrier strike groups. Development was driven by a desire to deploy a submarine-launched platform capable of delivering a decisive strike against these high-value targets at considerable range. The design incorporated significant advances over earlier Soviet submarine classes, including a larger hull to accommodate the SS-N-3a Shaddock cruise missiles and improved sonar systems. The Echo II boats were intended to operate in conjunction with maritime patrol aircraft, which would provide over-the-horizon targeting data. The class reflects a Cold War-era doctrine of sea denial, aiming to disrupt enemy naval operations and protect Soviet strategic assets.

The primary role of the PLARK-675 Echo II is anti-surface warfare (ASuW), specifically targeting enemy surface combatants and carrier battle groups. While not specifically designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) or anti-air warfare (AAW), the vessel retains a limited self-defense capability against submarines and surface threats. The installation of the Snoop Slab [Burya] radar enables surface search and missile guidance functions. The Stop Light B [Nakat] electronic support measures (ESM) suite allows for the detection and identification of radar emissions from enemy vessels, providing valuable intelligence and targeting data. Furthermore, the Shark Teeth [MKG-100 Kerch] and Shark Fin [MKG-100 Kerch] sonar systems, along with the Front Door A [Argument] sonar, provide a degree of situational awareness, although their effectiveness against modern submarines is limited. The 533mm and 400mm torpedo tubes provide a close-range engagement option.

Technologically, the PLARK-675 Echo II represents a compromise between offensive firepower and stealth. The large missile tubes necessitate a significant acoustic signature, making the vessel more detectable compared to dedicated attack submarines. However, the long range of the SS-N-3a Shaddock missiles allows the submarine to engage targets from a safer distance. The Mine Avoidance [MG-14 Arfa-G] system enhances survivability in mined areas. The Generic Acoustic Intercept system provides further awareness of active sonar emissions, enabling evasive maneuvers or counter-detection efforts. The inclusion of a Quad Loop DF antenna supports direction finding of radio transmissions, which is useful for intelligence gathering. The Generic Submarine Periscope and Optical sensors, while rudimentary by modern standards, offer visual confirmation of targets and navigation.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 115.4 m || Beam: 9.2 m || Draft: 7.1 m || Disp: 4485 t

SENSORS: Quad Loop DF || Stop Light B [Nakat] || Shark Teeth [MKG-100 Kerch] || Shark Fin [MKG-100 Kerch] || Front Door A [Argument] || Snoop Slab [Burya] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mine Avoidance [MG-14 Arfa-G] || Generic Submarine Periscope || Optical

ARMAMENT: SS-N-3a Shaddock Tubes || Signal Ejector || 533mm TT || 533mm TT || 400mm TT